We first met Shelley a couple of months ago, when she explained how she lost 45 kgs and completely transformed her life. Now, she’s truly part of the YF Fam, achieving goals left, right and centre, all while remaining as down-to-earth as ever. So, what’s life like after such a transformation? We caught up with Shelley to find out.

G'day Shelley. How's your year started?

Shelley laughing and smiling at the camera holding up her left arm and flexing her bicep
2021 has been off to a great start! I took a break with friends and family over Christmas and New Year, and had some much needed downtime. I’m back into researching and writing my PhD thesis full time, so I am currently spending most of my time in the library, but when I can I've been trying to soak up the weather outside! I love summertime in Queensland as it reminds me of my childhood. I’ve been going fishing, swimming, and doing a lot of cycling which I am really enjoying.

You've had a huge amount of success with weight loss and fitness already. What are you focusing on now?

Thank you so much. I’m currently focusing on providing value to those who follow my story. My number 1 priority is helping people on their journey to a healthier life. I am constantly asking myself "What would I have benefited from 2 years ago when I needed to change my lifestyle?"

So, I’ve been busy creating workout and diet plans, exercise videos, recipes and a range of educational material to share with my @shredwithshelley audience. I’m trying to create content that is engaging and entertaining, as well as useful. I’m always eager to hear feedback about what would help people the most.

Have you helped a friend or fan with their weight loss or fitness journey?

I’m hoping that with the launch of my next big announcement (cue secret project - haha!) that I will be able to share many stories of success. I am frequently contacted by people who tell me they have lost weight, joined a gym or tried my workouts, so that is a huge honour and very humbling for me!

“Just read through your Youfoodz blog and I'm starting everything tomorrow. Just put my order in. I have a massive amount to lose but baby steps will get me there. Really inspiring reading about your journey, thank you.” Rebecca

What's your most embarrassing or funny gym story?

Haha, this is a good one. When I first started losing weight I was using the elliptical machine for a short cardio warm up before weights training. It was my first month on my weight loss journey and I was starting to feel more confident in my body. I bought some tights that were WAY too small (I guess I was feeling inspired) and after my warm up I confidently jumped off the elliptical and split my pants right up the middle! I threw my sweat towel around my waist and ran out of the gym as fast as I could. Hahaha. I'll never forget that !

What's your favourite type of exercise?

I love weights training. I must say that training my upper body and arms is my absolute favourite. There is no feeling like lifting a weight that seemed impossible several weeks prior. I love the sense of achievement with setting goals and looking back thinking, "I just did that!"

You recently shared a post on your account @shredwithshelley about challenges and failures. Can you tell us a bit about that?

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Shelley Bishop • Weight Loss (@shredwithshelley)

I have been battling some chronic injuries for the last year or so, which has been very mentally and physically challenging for me. I have degenerative damage to my lower lumbar and suffered a nasty accident mid-last year, after which I had to cease all exercise. I also have tendinopathy and bursitis in my left shoulder which has significantly halted my progress.

For someone who is so driven to better themselves constantly, these injuries are really frustrating. I believe it is really important to share our failures and challenges, because everyone is human and has their own struggles. I was so afraid to start my fitness journey because I assumed everyone was perfect and it was very intimidating for me. I'm here to share my journey, but to also be honest and open about my failures because they are just as important as the success I have achieved.

What advice would you give to someone facing a challenge?

Firstly, to acknowledge that it is okay and completely normal to struggle! Whether or not they show it, everyone has challenges and failures that they face daily. Being kind to yourself and keeping a positive mindset will take you most of the way to conquering your challenges. Talk to people about your problems, find support and educate yourself. There will always be someone who has gone through what you are facing, so you should never feel like you have to go through your struggles alone.

Inspired? Get 20% OFF your Youfoodz order with code SHELLEY20. See terms and conditions for full details.

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